Introduction / History

A unique feature of the Meitei is that their community is made of one language, but two religions. A majority of them are Hindus and have Mongoloid features, while a minority of them are Muslims and have Bengali features. In spite of this, there exists good harmony between them and they are proud of the common heritage of their mother tongue. Though there are Meitei people in neighboring Myanmar and Bangladesh, those in India have their own state:Manipur. Meitei is the official state language. Others live in Assam, another state in northeastern India.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Most Meiteis still earn a living by farming, though the younger generation would like to use their education to enter more modern fields. The Meitei are very resistant to change, particularly in the area of religion. Outsiders trying to spread the gospel are not well received, and individuals may resist the gospel for fear that they will lose their place in the Meitei society if they become Christians. Much work needs to be done to make them aware of their need for Christ.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Hinduism is their religion, though there are many Muslims among them, especially in Bangladesh.

What Are Their Needs?

The Meitei people need the chance to allow Jesus Christ to bless them far above what they can ever imagine!

Prayer Points

Pray that the the council leaders will come to Jesus Christ and lead their community into a Christ-ward direction. Pray that gospel materials and the internet will become easily available to them. Pray for intercessors and workers. Pray for a spiritual hunger that will lead them to the cross.

Scripture Prayers for the Meitei unspecified in India.